Is My Apple Watch Waterproof? Full Water Resistance Guide

Wondering if your Apple Watch can handle swimming, showers, or saltwater? The water resistance level depends on your model. Here’s the complete breakdown of Apple Watch water resistance ratings from the 1st Generation to the latest models.

Apple Watch Water Resistance Ratings

Model	Water Resistance
Apple Watch (1st Gen)	IPX7 – Water-resistant up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. Not recommended for swimming.
Apple Watch Series 2	Water-resistant up to 50 meters (ISO Standard 22810:2010). Suitable for swimming.
Apple Watch Series 3	Water-resistant up to 50 meters. Suitable for swimming.
Apple Watch Series 4	Water-resistant up to 50 meters. Suitable for swimming.
Apple Watch Series 5	Water-resistant up to 50 meters. Suitable for swimming.
Apple Watch Series 6	Water-resistant up to 50 meters. Suitable for swimming.
Apple Watch SE	Water-resistant up to 50 meters. Suitable for swimming.
Apple Watch Series 7	Water-resistant up to 50 meters. Suitable for swimming.

Swimming and Water Activities

• Series 1 (1st Gen): Not recommended for swimming – only splash-resistant.
• Series 2 and later: Safe for swimming, showering, handwashing, and rain. Not suitable for diving deeper than 50 meters.

What the Water Drop Icon Means

On Series 2 and later, the water drop icon indicates that the Water Lock is active. This locks the screen to prevent accidental touches in water and expels any water from the speakers after use.

How to Manually Activate Water Lock

1. Swipe up on the watch face to open the Control Center.
2. Tap the water drop icon to activate Water Lock.
3. After swimming, turn the Digital Crown to eject water from the speakers.

Saltwater Swimming

You can swim with your Apple Watch in the ocean (saltwater), pools (chlorine), or freshwater lakes. However, Apple recommends rinsing with fresh water after swimming to prevent salt damage.

Apple’s Water Resistance Standard

Apple Watches Series 2 and later meet the ISO 22810:2010 standard, meaning they can handle water immersion up to 50 meters. This level of protection is unlikely to be increased in future models, as it meets most users’ needs.

Recommended Apple Watch Bands for Swimming

• Best for water use: Silicone sport bands and nylon bands – durable and quick-drying.
• Not recommended: Milanese loop, link bracelets, and leather straps – these can rust or degrade over time with water exposure.

Important Notes

• Apple Watches are not designed for scuba diving or high-pressure water sports.
• Water resistance may decrease over time due to wear and tear.
• You cannot operate the touchscreen underwater – the watch automatically locks when submerged.
  
  
  

Source: Apple.com

Upgrade Your Apple Watch for Swimming

If you plan to swim regularly     with your Apple Watch, consider switching to a water-resistant band. At Smartwatch-straps.co.uk, you’ll find premium Apple Watch bands perfect for water sports and daily wear, including:

• Silicone Sport Bands
• Nylon Bands
• Replacement Apple Watch Straps